The design of an upper arm prosthesis utilising 3D printing conceived for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games: A technical note.

Abstract

This article describes the design and development of an upper-limb prosthesis for a current elite level paracyclist that was conceived for use in the 2020 Paralympic Games. The prosthetic limb was intended specifically for use in cycling time trial events. These are held on the road and in the velodrome whereby the athlete rides using a tucked aerodynamic position. The prosthesis was developed using computer aided design software and an extensive use of the 3D printed manufacturing process. The resulting technical note illustrates the design methodology and manufacturing considerations for a high performance form of assistive technology. However, it results in a solution that challenges the traditional aesthetic of prosthetic limbs intended for sport and physical activity.